Ainsworth Hot Springs

Overlooking Kootenay Lake from a hillside 40 kilometers (25 miles) north of Nelson [1], the Ainsworth Hot Springs (250/229-4212, 10 a.m.–9:30 p.m. in summer, shorter hours rest of year, adult $10, senior $9, child $8) were discovered in the early 1800s by local natives who found that the hot, odorless water (high in magnesium sulfate, calcium sulfate, and sodium carbonate) helped heal their wounds and ease their aches and pains.

Today the springs have been commercialized and include a main outdoor pool, a hot tub, steam bath, and cold plunge pool. The adjacent Ainsworth Hot Springs Resort (250/229-4212 or 800/668-1171, www.hotnaturally.com [2], $138–199 s or d) features exercise and massage rooms, a lounge, and a licensed restaurant overlooking the main pool and beautiful Kootenay Lake.